Backup specific apps only?

[0000757]

So I have some software installed on my computer that I don't have my CD for anymore and I really want to keep it in case I need to reinstall. So, is it possible to choose what I back up, like save specific apps only or specific documents only, and if I restore/fresh upgrade it will copy only those apps back?

 

[benwiggy]

Using Time Machine, you can specify folders that are excluded from the backup.

However:
1. It's generally a good idea to backup EVERYTHING.
2. You can restore individual files or folders from Time Machine.

 

[Bear]

Using Time Machine, you can specify folders that are excluded from the backup.

However:
1. It's generally a good idea to backup EVERYTHING.
2. You can restore individual files or folders from Time Machine.

Agreed, I like the idea of pointing or fresh install to a Time Machine backup and knowing that when it's done the system needs nothing else done to be able to use it.

 

[0000757]

Using Time Machine, you can specify folders that are excluded from the backup.

However:
1. It's generally a good idea to backup EVERYTHING.
2. You can restore individual files or folders from Time Machine.

I normally back up everything, but I've been wanting to do a clean install to (hopefully) boost my system.

Does Time Machine let me pick apps to back up?

 

[benwiggy]

I normally back up everything, but I've been wanting to do a clean install to (hopefully) boost my system.
Does Time Machine let me pick apps to back up?

What makes you think a clean install is the best way to "boost" your system.
In the normal running of OS X, you should not need to reinstall the system unless you've actually overwritten or deleted system components, or reinstalling is simpler than trying to find all the bits you want to delete.

Yes, you can exclude files if you really want.